912House Officially Launches in 3 Weeks!

May 15

Last month provided an important start to our work in new community campus, the 912House, on Chester’s tough west side.

God provided great weather and some connections that we are praying grow stronger during a prayer and trash walk. Our small team of volunteers prayed and hit the streets with trash bags and trash grabbers.

Here’s what followed:

– A group of young adults asked if they could help — hello, easy yes — and even offered to get involved with the 912House church launch and after school programs coming soon.

– One woman shared a desire to keep this street and home clean like in Springfield. If we all do our part regularly, this is so doable!

– We met many new neighbors who are hopeful and welcoming as we continue to put down roots here

The big takeaway is the folks here want to be part of the positive change they see percolating around them.

God is answering prayers to connect well with new neighbors just when we need it as we seek to make an impact bringing the gospel in action to this difficult area known for high crime and life below the poverty line.

This might be our ninth community clean and prayer walk, but our first on the west side.

Not only were we able to pick up lots of trash, but we got to meet our neighbors while showing what it’s like to pour attention, time, and effort into a common space.

It is great to see the end result of clean streets and lawns, and hear the encouragement of our community.

Whenever we go into the world, we don't go on our own strength, we pray for God to go before us, to lead us to people who need to hear the Gospel.